Fiji, April 24 -- Today, Tuvalu marks Te Aso o te Paula, the 82nd anniversary of the bombing of Funafuti in 1943-a day of remembrance, resilience, and renewed calls for peace.

On this day 82 years ago, Japanese bombers targeted the small atoll of Funafuti. As the attack approached, around 50 locals had sought refuge inside a church.

Corporal Fonnie Black Ladd, a U.S Marine stationed on the island, realised imminent danger and took brave action to save lives.

"Corporal Fonnie Black Ladd, a U.S Marine stationed here, realised the church would likely be targeted. He called out for people to leave-but when they didn't respond, he fired his weapon to force an evacuation. Moments later, the church was bombed and destroyed. His actions saved ...